Translation guide
Describes someone who behaves politely and appropriately in social situations. In Japanese, this is often expressed through specific adjectives, verbs, and phrases that emphasize upbringing, consideration, and adherence to social norms.
Describing a person who is generally polite, courteous, and well-behaved.
The most direct and common translation. It means 'polite' or 'courteous' and is used for people who follow proper etiquette.
彼はとても礼儀正しい人です。
He is a very well-mannered person.
Literally 'has good manners', often used for behavior at the table or in public. Slightly more focused on outward conduct.
あの子は行儀がいいですね。
That child is well-mannered, isn't he?
Polite version of 行儀がいい, often used when praising children's manners.
お行儀がいいですね。
You have very good manners.
Emphasizing that someone's good manners come from proper upbringing.
Means 'well-brought-up' or 'raised well'. Implies that the person's family background and education contributed to their good manners.
彼女は育ちがいいから、どんな場でも失礼がない。
She is well-mannered because she was raised well, so she is never rude in any situation.
Literally 'discipline is thorough', used to describe someone whose training in manners is complete. Often used for children.
あの子は躾が行き届いていて、本当に感心する。
That child is so well-mannered, it's truly admirable.
Describing someone whose manners are graceful, sophisticated, and elegant.
Means 'refined', 'elegant', or 'graceful'. Used for people who have a classy and polished demeanor.
彼女の話し方はとても上品だ。
Her way of speaking is very refined.
Means 'elegant' or 'graceful', often implying a natural, effortless beauty in manners.
Focusing on the aspect of being considerate and mindful of others.
Means 'considerate' or 'thoughtful'. A well-mannered person often shows consideration for others.
彼はいつも思いやりがあって、周りの人を大切にする。
He is always considerate and treats those around him with care.
Means 'attentive' or 'quick to notice what needs to be done'. Describes someone who is tactful and considerate in social situations.
彼女は気が利くから、いつも先回りして手伝ってくれる。
She is so attentive that she always helps out before being asked.
礼儀正しい refers to a general attitude of politeness and respect, including language use and bowing. 行儀がいい focuses more on behavior, especially in specific settings like meals or public places. You can be 行儀がいい without being particularly 礼儀正しい if you just follow rules without heartfelt respect.
When praising a child's manners, お行儀がいい is very common and sounds warm. 育ちがいい can sound a bit too evaluative of the parents, so use it carefully.
His bearing is elegant.